A perm is a chemical treatment used to create long-lasting curls or waves in the hair. During a perm, hair is wrapped around rods or rollers and treated with a chemical solution that breaks and reforms the bonds within the hair shaft, allowing it to take on a new shape. Once the desired curl pattern is achieved, a neutralizer is applied to stabilize the hair in its new form. Perms can vary in intensity, from loose, beachy waves to tight, spiral curls, and can be tailored to suit different hair types and preferences.